The
Audubon Bird Sanctuary
on Dauphin Island is one of the Gulf
Coast's premier birding destinations, protecting more than 160 acres of
maritime forest, freshwater wetlands, dunes, and shoreline. The sanctuary is
especially famous as a resting place for migratory birds crossing the Gulf of
Mexico, making it an outstanding destination during spring and fall migrations.
Visitors experience a diverse mix of coastal habitats, including shaded maritime forest paths, elevated wooden boardwalks crossing wetlands, observation areas overlooking Gaillard Lake, and sandy trails leading toward the Gulf beach. The scenery changes quickly from dense pine and live oak forest to open marshes, dunes, and shoreline, providing excellent wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the walk.